Key Takeaways
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Identify the Signs: Recognize that depression often presents as irritability or withdrawal rather than just sadness.
Early Intervention Matters: 50% of mental health conditions begin by age 14, making early identification vital for long-term wellness.Â
Actionable Resources: Access our free Family Workbook Series to move from concern to confident advocacy for your child.Â
Understanding Adolescent Depression
Adolescence is a period of significant physical and emotional change, which can sometimes make it difficult to distinguish between “typical” teenage behavior and clinical depression. However, adolescent depression is a real, serious, and treatable medical disorder.Â
At Erika’s Lighthouse, we use data as a rallying cry for change. Our programs empower students and families to recognize that seeking help is a sign of strength. In fact, after participating in our programs, 89% of students can accurately identify the signs and symptoms of depression.
Common Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
Depression can manifest differently in every child. While some may appear sad, others may display high levels of irritability or anger.Â
Emotional and Physical Symptoms:
Change in Mood: Persistent feelings of sadness or extreme irritability. Â
Loss of Interest: Decreased pleasure in activities they once loved.
Sleep and Appetite Changes: Sleeping too much or too little; significant weight gain or loss.
Energy Levels: Persistent fatigue or a total loss of energy.Â
Negative Self-Perception: Expressing feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt.Â
Cognitive Difficulties: Trouble concentrating, thinking clearly, or making simple decisions. Â
Behavioral Red Flags:
Sudden drop in school grades or attendance.Â
Withdrawal from long-term friend groups.
Neglecting personal hygiene or appearance.
Engaging in reckless behavior or substance use.Â
Suicidality: Any talk of death, suicide, or acts of self-harm must be taken seriously immediately.
How Families and Schools Can Take Action
Addressing the youth mental health crisis requires collective action across our Four Pillars: Classroom Education, Empowerment Clubs, Family Engagement, and Policy & Staff Training. Â
For Families:
If you are concerned about your child, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Our Family Workbook Series and workshops are 100% free and provide a “parent-to-parent” guide for supporting your child at home. Currently, 91% of students report that they have the information and ability to take care of their mental health after using ELH resources.
For Schools:
Students spend 20% of their time in school, making educators vital partners in early identification. We offer “off-the-shelf,” ready-to-use curriculum that helps staff become Trusted Adults. Our 2024-25 data shows that after our programs, 11% more students feel comfortable talking with a trusted adult about their mental health.
Questions and Answers
What should I do if I see these symptoms in my child? Start a conversation using our free Family Workbook Series. If symptoms persist for more than two weeks and interfere with daily life, seek a professional evaluation from a pediatrician or mental health specialist.
Are Erika’s Lighthouse resources really free? Yes. We believe every student deserves access to high-quality mental health tools, which is why our entire suite of programs—from classroom lessons to family toolkits—is 100% free with no “bait and switch.”
How do I find a “Trusted Adult” for my student at school? Our programs teach students how to identify and approach a Trusted Adult—such as a teacher, coach, or counselor. Following our curriculum, 13% more students are able to identify a supportive adult in their school environment.
